What’s Stopping You? – 05/19/2025

Safety E-Quick Tip

OWYN Safety Management Platform

What’s Stopping You?

Last week, we discussed “The Key Benefits of Proactive Safety.” If you missed it, you might want to take a look. Today, let’s explore the barriers that prevent companies from implementing a proactive safety culture. While I’ve touched on this topic before, I want to present it from a slightly different angle.

So, What Gets in Everyone’s Way?

It’s Hard!

Let’s break down the reasons many companies hesitate to adopt a proactive safety culture:

• No One Likes Change: Transitioning from a reactive to a proactive safety culture is a significant change. Getting both management and employees on board can be tough. People often resist change, preferring to stick with familiar routines, even if those routines are not the safest.
• The “We’re Just Going to Do This” Attitude: In many organizations, safety initiatives are implemented top-down. Upper management decides to enforce safety protocols, which are then passed down to middle management. Unfortunately, middle management often feels overwhelmed with their responsibilities and assumes employees should already know how to work safely. This leads to a disconnect, with employees asserting, “We’ve done it this way for the past 10-15 years.” Ultimately, this results in inaction, and the initiative falls flat.
• All or Nothing Approach: Some companies feel they must cover every possible aspect of safety before implementing any changes. This all-or-nothing mindset can lead to frustration and ultimately cause teams to give up on safety initiatives altogether.
• It Takes Too Much Time: Time is a precious commodity, and many companies are operating with fewer staff than ever before. Finding the time to implement a proactive safety culture can seem impossible when there are so many other daily tasks to manage.
• It Costs Too Much: Developing a proactive safety culture does require an investment, which can be a concern for businesses looking to maintain their bottom line. However, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial costs.

Why Should You Bother to Try?

Despite these barriers, implementing a proactive safety culture is worth the effort. A proactive approach provides a return on investment that far exceeds any reasons currently holding you back—if done correctly! Here are some key benefits to consider:

• Insurance and Workers’ Compensation Savings: A proactive safety culture can lead to fewer accidents, which can significantly reduce insurance premiums and workers’ compensation costs.
• Reduced Accidents: By identifying and mitigating risks before they become incidents, you create a safer work environment for everyone. Reducing accidents not only protects employees but also minimizes the costly loss of personnel. When employees are injured, it can result in them being out for days or even weeks, slowing down production and impacting project timelines. This disruption can lead to increased costs and delays that affect your bottom line.
• Enhanced Reputation: Companies known for prioritizing safety gain a competitive edge and attract more clients. A strong safety record enhances your reputation in the marketplace.
• Competitive Advantage: A robust safety program can differentiate your company from competitors, making you more attractive to potential clients.
• Improved Bottom Line: Ultimately, a proactive safety culture leads to increased productivity, reduced costs, and overall improved profitability.

Overcoming the barriers to implementing a proactive safety culture may seem daunting, but the benefits are significant. Investing in safety not only protects your employees but also enhances your company’s reputation and profitability. Don’t let fear hold you back—embrace the change and reap the rewards!

Employee QuickTip

Start preparing yourself for the hot summer months ahead by staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Employer/Management QuickTip

Start preparing employees to protect themselves during the upcoming hot summer months by implementing heat safety protocols, providing access to cool rest areas, and ensuring that hydration stations are readily available on-site.

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Stay Safe – You’ve Got This!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

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